A Day Trip to Nara, the City of Deer

Japan Travel Diary 42: Nara Edition

📍Nara City

Explore Nara, the city of deer 🦌, with this recommended day trip itinerary from Kyoto. While most people think of the famous Nara Park, the city has many other beautiful spots worth visiting.

📍Hozanji & Ikoma Amusement Park (10 AM - 12 PM)
Hozanji Temple and Ikoma Amusement Park are accessible via a charming cable car ride. Located on higher ground, these spots offer a panoramic view of Nara's cityscape.

📍Yoshikien Garden (12 PM - 1 PM)
Yoshikien Garden is a tranquil garden located next to Nara Park. It's a peaceful spot with fewer tourists, making it perfect for a quiet stroll 🌿.

📍Nara Park (2 PM - 3 PM)
Nara Park is filled with friendly deer 🦌! It's one of the highlights of any trip to Nara. You can bow to the deer, and they might bow back. Don't forget to buy some deer crackers (senbei) to feed them.

📍Todai-ji Temple (4 PM - 5 PM)
Located near Nara Park, Todai-ji is a famous temple ⛩️. It's convenient to visit both places together. Since it can get crowded during the day, visiting in the late afternoon is recommended.

📍Higashimuki Shopping Street (5 PM - 6 PM)
This arcade shopping street 🛍️ is located in front of Kintetsu Nara Station. It offers a variety of souvenirs and local goods. Be sure to try Kamaiki Udon, a famous udon restaurant in the area 🤤.

📍Nara Day Trip Itinerary at a Glance
Hozanji & Ikoma Amusement Park -> Yoshikien Garden -> Nara Park -> Todai-ji -> Higashimuki Shopping Street

🚇How to Get to Nara from Kyoto
Take the Kintetsu Nara Line from Kyoto Station -> Arrive at Nara Station (approximately 35 minutes)